Why is my clearcoat peeling or flaking?

What is Clearcoat Delamination?

This article explains what clearcoat delamination is, what causes it, how to prevent it, and when it may be considered for warranty.

The clearcoat is the transparent protective layer applied over the wheel's finish. 

Clearcoat delamination is when the clear coat no longer adheres to the wheel surface. 

When clearcoat delamination occurs, the coating may peel, flake, or separate from the wheel.

Cause

Clearcoat delamination is primarily caused by salt exposure.  

Salt can penetrate the coating, especially where damage exists such as a scraped lip. The embedded salt crystals then goes through repeated wetting, drying, and recrystallization cycles. This process leads to the separation of the clearcoat from the wheel surface.

An additional common cause for clearcoat delamination is a lack of proper maintenance. The use of improper cleaning methods may also have an impact on the clearcoat.

Common causes include:

• Road salt exposure combined with infrequent cleaning
• High salt environments such as coastal areas
• Improper cleaning methods (chemicals, abrasive materials, etc.)

Prevention

To help prevent clearcoat delamination:

• Remove salt buildup as soon as possible
• Wash wheels regularly by hand using mild car wash soap
• Do not use wheel cleaners or dish soap
• Be cautious with high pressure washers
• Be cautious of automatic car washes which may use damaging chemicals or scrape the wheels in the tracks

What wheels are best for winter driving?

Fully Painted Wheels

• More durable in harsh environments
• Salt Spray tested
• CASS tested

What wheels finishes should I avoid in the winter?

Non-Fully Painted Finishes
Not recommended for winter use:

• Machined wheels with a clear coated finish have only one protective coating layer
• Diamond Cut, Chrome, and Raw finishes usually have no protective layer

Warranty Information

A clear coat delamination claim is only warrantable if all conditions are met:

Timeline

• Within the 1-year warranty period

Condition

• No physical damage to the wheel (chips, scratches or curb rash)

Maintenance

• Evidence of proper care